Install another layer on your roof when you¿re redoing it. It¿s called a ¿secondary water barrier,¿ and it ¿does not add much cost to the re-roofing project but helps water from penetrating through the roof deck,¿ said Nelson. Barra recommends consumers keep detailed records of home improvements, including photos, receipts, permits and correspondence with their insurance company, agents and inspectors regarding the upgrades and what qualifies for a discount. ¿It is the responsibility of the homeowner to clearly show documentation to the insurance company for work [that has] been done,¿ he said, adding that the documents will help the consumer challenge a decision revoking legitimate discounts. Don¿t forget to take photos of the roof every year, Bates add. ¿The single biggest [reason] many insurance companies denied claims after Hurricane Wilma was because they said the roof damage was a pre-existing condition,¿ he said. ¿Have it inspected and documented by a licensed roofer before the hurricane, and most will do it at no charge.¿

Install another layer on your roof when you¿re redoing it. It¿s called a ¿secondary water barrier,¿ and it ¿does not add much cost to the re-roofing project but helps water from penetrating through the roof deck,¿ said Nelson. Barra recommends consumers keep detailed records of home improvements, including photos, receipts, permits and correspondence with their insurance company, agents and inspectors regarding the upgrades and what qualifies for a discount. ¿It is the responsibility of the homeowner to clearly show documentation to the insurance company for work [that has] been done,¿ he said, adding that the documents will help the consumer challenge a decision revoking legitimate discounts. Don¿t forget to take photos of the roof every year, Bates add. ¿The single biggest [reason] many insurance companies denied claims after Hurricane Wilma was because they said the roof damage was a pre-existing condition,¿ he said. ¿Have it inspected and documented by a licensed roofer before the hurricane, and most will do it at no charge.¿ (Photo courtesy of Department of Financial Services)

Install another layer on your roof when you¿re redoing it. It¿s called a ¿secondary water barrier,¿ and it ¿does not add much cost to the re-roofing project but helps water from penetrating through the roof deck,¿ said Nelson. Barra recommends consumers keep detailed records of home improvements, including photos, receipts, permits and correspondence with their insurance company, agents and inspectors regarding the upgrades and what qualifies for a discount. ¿It is the responsibility of the homeowner to clearly show documentation to the insurance company for work [that has] been done,¿ he said, adding that the documents will help the consumer challenge a decision revoking legitimate discounts. Don¿t forget to take photos of the roof every year, Bates add. ¿The single biggest [reason] many insurance companies denied claims after Hurricane Wilma was because they said the roof damage was a pre-existing condition,¿ he said. ¿Have it inspected and documented by a licensed roofer before the hurricane, and most will do it at no charge.¿Photo courtesy of Department of Financial Services